Temp Gradient

[fiveinfinity]

I am looking for suggestions on how to best provide the proper temp gradient for my bp tanks. They are each in 20 gallon long aquariums and they have a UTH on one side. The problem is two-fold. First, although the floor temp on the warm side is about 89 degrees, the temp under the hide is considerably more (based on readings from a temp gun). Secondly, the cool side is much too cool – sometimes getting as low as the mid 60s.
I need a way to provide the proper temps consistently. There is not much I can do about ambient temps in the room and I would like to avoid heat lamps if possible. I am considering flex watt heat tape for the cool side and a rheostat to be able to manually turn down temps. Keep in mind I have 4 snakes and would like to keep the cost as reasonable as possible. (I am saving up for PVC enclosures and plan to use radiant heat panels and thermostats but it will still be awhile until I have my dream snake habitats!)

[PitOnTheProwl]

What are you using to regulate the UTH now?
What is the temp under the hide?
Ambient temps will need to be brought up. Oil filled heater is great for heating the whole room.

[fiveinfinity]

The reason I can’t work on ambient temps in the room is thanks to my husband who has no real concern for the animals and will not allow me to mess with the temps in the house. He loves it cold all the time. The temps can get to over 100 in the hides. I am going to get a dimmer switch for now so I can turn down the UTH. But of course I want a more permanent solution as well.

[PitOnTheProwl]

Your only choices will be a regulated UHT and an overhead CHE or red light.
The care of the animal is the most important.
Unless you have a walk-in closet you could put it in, again with a way to heat the whole closet.

[fiveinfinity]

Is there a reason that it is always suggested one heat source come from above and the other from below? Why are 2 regulated UTHs not recommended? Thanks for your help.

[PitOnTheProwl]

Is there a reason that it is always suggested one heat source come from above and the other from below? Why are 2 regulated UTHs not recommended? Thanks for your help.

Because a UTH isnt made/greatest for ambient heating.